“From Rock to Diamond: The Alchemy of Mind and Spirit” By SoFeya SahRa Joseph

From Rock to Diamond: The Alchemy of Mind and Spirit

By: SoFeya SahRa Joseph

Many years ago, when I coached competitive figure skating, I was obsessed with understanding why some athletes became champions while others failed despite having similar or even superior physical abilities. I would watch skaters practice complex maneuvers with consistent precision, only to crumble under pressure at competitions, year after year. These athletes would return, work even harder on their technique, yet despair after another disappointing performance. On the other hand, some consistently performed at their best under pressure. Something wasn’t adding up.

Work ethic, habits, and technique were not the only factors determining success. “Talent” was often used to describe the ‘lucky winners,’ while “psychology” was blamed for those with ‘faulty minds.’ However, I couldn’t rely on “luck” to coach only “talented” students. I needed to find a way to elevate the performance of my ‘faulty-minded’ students. Traditional sports psychology tools were not meeting the demands of my sport. Mental training requires long, unnatural, ineffective preparation in a high-paced, high-pressure, competitive environment. I had to find a better way.

The search for ‘another way’ led me to discover The Mind Wheel, an ancient yogic teaching that explains how our mind works. This simple diagram effectively shows how an event enters our mind (1), is processed through subconscious filters of our beliefs (2), and produces a thought (3). A thought elicits an emotion (4), which in turn invokes a desire (5), followed by an action (6). The action then creates a consequence (7) and leads to another event (0), and the cycle repeats.

Most people get stuck in this wheel for years, even lifetimes, habitually responding to a stimulus in the same way over and over. Cognitive Behavioral Psychologists refer to these mind processes as patterns, thought forms, or core beliefs and offer various therapy techniques for behavior change that may take years to instill with only mild relief. Eastern esoteric gurus promise that one can break the cycle if one develops will and discipline, such as required in yoga and meditation practice.

But they also warn of the challenge…

“The Road to Lasting Peace” By Dr. Angelika Selle

The Road to Lasting Peace

By: Dr. Angelika Selle

From childhood, I wanted to be a peacemaker, but it seemed like an impossible dream—a pipe dream, some would say.

According to one online post I recently encountered, “Of the past 3,400 years, humans have been entirely at peace only for 268 of them, or only 8 percent of recorded history.” This indicates that, although most humans desire peace, it has never been fully achieved. Yet, simultaneously, the strong desire for peace never stops, and efforts toward peace continue.

We also witness that institutions such as the United Nations—founded to maintain international peace and security and, to that end, to take effective collective measures to prevent and remove threats to the peace—have not been able to fulfill their promise to the fullest. In fact, in the face of today’s countless global crises, tensions, wars, and violations of human rights, one might not have much hope or expectations that the UN or any government or institution will be able to even make a dent in terms of not only creating peace but maintaining it.

So, is there any hope?

I say, YES, there is hope, and peace is possible!

However, from my experience, the answer does not lie in peace treaties, contracts, or mutual agreements. Instead, lasting peace begins in the spiritual realm and within each individual.

Indeed, I realized that, in addition to all the wars, divisions, and conflicts in the world, there are also eight billion wars—one within each of us. It is a battle between striving to do good, being kind and unselfish, and living for the sake of others and constantly being tempted and trapped into doing the opposite, namely, evil or bad, selfishness, anger, hate, and all other forms of hurting self and others.

One can say that the latter is just “reality” and “being human”; therefore, nothing will ever change.

Therein lies the problem…

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“Mastering Emotional Intelligence: Unlocking Your Brain’s Superpowers” By Hisham David Shihadeh

Mastering Emotional Intelligence: Unlocking Your Brain’s Superpowers

By: Hisham David Shihadeh

Emotional intelligence, or EQ, has become an increasingly important superpower in our fast-paced, interconnected world. The ability to understand, manage, and navigate our own emotions, as well as those of others, can profoundly impact our relationships, decision-making, and overall well-being. It’s the secret sauce that can take us from good to great, personally and professionally.

My Journey to Mastering Emotional Intelligence

Growing up, I always felt like an outsider. My intense emotions often overwhelmed me, making it difficult to connect with my peers and navigate the social landscape of school. Despite my intelligence and creativity, I struggled to find my place in the world, constantly doubting my worth and abilities.

But I was determined to break free from this cycle. Through my research and self-exploration, I discovered the power of emotional intelligence…

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“What’s Inside Your Box?” By Joan S. Peck

What’s Inside Your Box?

By Joan S. Peck

Whether we know it or not, we each have a box within our mind where we stuff away some of our thoughts, ideas, dreams, fears, and prejudices. We started when we were young, not even aware of doing it. It could have been something like your fear of water, or an old saying such as “if you step on a crack, you break your mother’s back,” or the idea that you’re not successful unless you are rich, or the belief that you’ll never amount to anything, or the dream of becoming a doctor despite coming from a low-income family, or so many other things—those thoughts or ideas we unwittingly hold onto and have held close often influenced our way of living.

Do you believe your hopes and dreams cannot become real, so it is best not to bring them out of your box? Do you feel your prejudices are the only way to think? Have you allowed whatever you have put into your box to stay there without thought or review, or are they stuck there because you are unwilling to see them differently?

It may be time you look inside your box to see what you have placed inside…

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“Bring Your Best Game” By Andi Buerger JD

Bring Your Best Game

By: Andi Buerger JD

Imagine it’s the day after the NFL’s famous Super Bowl game—no doubt there is celebration and disappointment in the post-game aftermath. It is the same for Major League Baseball’s World Series and many other well-known sports competitions where sometimes teams win – and sometimes they lose, kind of like life. Sometimes you win, and sometimes you face tremendous loss. The real question is, did you bring your best game?

No matter how good or new a team is – whether it’s your family, workplace, or community – the most critical factor in that ensemble is you. Are you fit to play the game? Are you prepared to win? Have you considered hypothetical options to anticipate whatever Team Life throws your way? Your teammates must also be fit, prepared, and ready to conquer “today” and will look to you as their model. What have you demonstrated to your life team this week that you want them to follow?

Your team wins in the long run by bringing your best game.

Best game means that you are emotionally, mentally, and physically up to the challenge of…

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“Embracing Your Invisible Sash: Tips for Women to Empower Themselves Daily” By Eliz Nestorov

Embracing Your Invisible Sash: Tips for Women to Empower Themselves Daily

By: Eliz Nestorov

Wearing a sash can be a transformative experience. It’s more than just a piece of fabric; it symbolizes honor, achievement, and responsibility. Whether it’s a beauty queen sash, a graduation sash, or a ceremonial sash, donning it brings a unique blend of empowerment and vulnerability that shapes how we perceive ourselves and others.

The moment you put on a sash, you can feel its power. It’s a tangible representation of recognition and accomplishment, and this feeling of empowerment can be exhilarating. A sash signifies a significant achievement that makes you stand out. It commands respect and admiration, often opening doors to opportunities that might remain closed.

Wearing a sash boosts your confidence. It’s a constant reminder of your achievements and the hard work that brought you there. This sense of validation can inspire you to aim even higher, set new goals, and pursue them with renewed vigor. The sash is a beacon of hope and motivation, driving you to impact your community and beyond positively.

However, with “great power comes great responsibility.” The sash makes you vulnerable. You are in the spotlight when you wear it, and people assume expectations. This visibility can be daunting and intimidating. Your actions and words are often scrutinized, and the pressure to maintain a specific image can sometimes be overwhelming. The sash turns you into a public figure, and with that comes the challenge of living up to its ideals.

While not every day presents the opportunity to don a physical sash, women can harness its empowering essence daily. Here are some tips on how to wear your invisible sash…

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“Setting Your Mindset for a Fulfilling Life” By Eileen Bild

Setting Your Mindset for a Fulfilling Life

By: Eileen Bild

I used to think I could “save the world,” which would bring me happiness and a fulfilling life. I thought I was doing something to make a difference, and the world would become a better place through my efforts. The more I put energy into my endeavors, the more I realized that changing the world is an enormous feat and that carrying this weight on my shoulders was nearly impossible. So, I stepped back and re-examined how I was thinking about my contributions and what it would take to lead a fulfilling life and still feel I am impacting the greater whole.

The mind is an excellent tool if we use it to our advantage. Rather than let it control us, we can work with its many facets to understand ourselves, and in turn, we will be understood. What does a fulfilling life mean to you? Each of us has a different definition, and we fit ourselves into what we envision in various ways. A fulfilling life includes being in tune with what feels good to me, loving with no agenda, and going with the flow while staying positive in my life experiences so my actions will positively impact others. There is a chaotic world around us, but we can learn to be in the middle of chaos with the strength, endurance, and drive to rise above it, leading a life full of meaning and purpose.

People will push our boundaries, we can feel hurt and disrespected, and life can seem unfair sometimes, but…

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“Leadership Lessons I Learned from Nelson Mandela” By Judi Moreo

Leadership Lessons I Learned from Nelson Mandela

By: Judi Moreo

It was 1990 when I moved to South Africa to work for the Argus Newspaper Group, which consisted of 17 newspapers, two radio stations, and the only privately owned television station in South Africa.  These media outlets were known for their comprehensive news coverage, ranging from local to international issues. They were critical in informing the public during significant political and social change.

The 1990s were a transformative period in South Africa, marked by the end of apartheid, the release of Nelson Mandela from prison, and the subsequent transition to a democratic government with the 1994 elections.

Because of my position in the newspaper group’s head office, I often attended events hosted by one of our prestigious newspapers, which is how I had the good fortune to meet Mr. Mandela on several occasions. I was moved by his humbleness and ability to make others feel like they were the most important people in the room. In my entire life, he was the most impressive person I have ever met, so I embarked on a journey to learn as much about him as I could.

Here are some key leadership lessons I learned from him:

1. The Power of Forgiveness and Reconciliation:

Mr. Mandela emphasized the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation, even after spending 27 years in prison. His ability to forgive his oppressors and work towards a unified South Africa is a powerful example of overcoming personal grievances for the greater good.

2. Leading by Example:

He demonstrated integrity and led by example. His commitment to his principles and his ability to remain steadfast in adversity…

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“Cultivating Authentic Harmony: A Blueprint for Champion Leaders” By Dr. Pauline Crawford

Cultivating Authentic Harmony: A Blueprint for Champion Leaders

By Dr. Pauline Crawford

In the intricate tapestry of human interaction, there exists a profound power—one that transcends differences and unites individuals in a symphony of authenticity and harmony. As leaders, our journey is not merely about steering the ship of success; it’s about orchestrating a collective melody that resonates with purpose and meaning.

In our quest for leadership excellence, we must first acknowledge the myriad challenges that dot the landscape of human dynamics. From navigating gender biases to unraveling the complexities of emotional expression, the path to effective leadership is fraught with obstacles that demand our attention and understanding.

Enter The Power of Authentic Harmony—a guiding principle that illuminates the path toward transformative leadership. Rooted in empathy, authenticity, and inclusivity, this paradigm empowers leaders to foster environments where every voice is heard, and every individual is valued.

At the heart of Authentic Harmony lies a deep appreciation for diversity in all its forms. Rather than viewing differences as barriers, champion leaders embrace them as catalysts for innovation and growth. By cultivating an environment where every individual feels seen, heard, and respected, we lay the groundwork for collaboration and synergy to flourish.

Central to the concept of Authentic Harmony is the recognition of gender dynamics and their profound impact on communication and collaboration. Studies have shown that men and women often navigate emotions differently, with societal norms influencing how anger, in particular, is perceived and expressed. By understanding these nuances, leaders can bridge the divide and foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding.

But Authentic Harmony goes beyond mere acknowledgment of differences; it requires a commitment to active listening, empathy, and vulnerability. It’s about creating spaces where individuals feel safe to express themselves authentically, without fear of judgment or reprisal.

As I would put it, “Life is the result of how you steer your journey, everyone else is your welcomed passenger.” In embracing the principles of Authentic Harmony, we embark on a journey of transformation—one where every interaction is an opportunity to uplift, inspire, and unite.

So let us smile with diversity and unify our success with all we meet. Let us lead with compassion, empathy, and integrity, creating a world where Authentic Harmony reigns supreme—a world where every individual can thrive and contribute their unique gifts to the collective symphony of humanity.

#AuthenticHarmony #ChampionLeadership #InclusiveLeadership #EmbraceDiversity

Dr. Pauline Crawford has published her book in English and French with a further addition in Spanish planned; her vision is a world of authentic harmony across language divides to bring us all together for a better future.

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The Conversation Game Changer

Dr. Pauline Crawford is a performance consultant dedicated to enhancing business leaders’ ability to create meaningful and profitable success through engaging their employees’ natural energy to enhance performance excellence.

With over 30 years’ experience in corporate UK, Europe, Asia, USA, she combines her roles as Chief Vision Officer of the Corporate Heart International; President-Elect 2023-24 Rotary Club Of Global Impact, and G100 Global Chair for Positive Masculinity, with her social media presence as an author and international speaker on “The Power of Authentic Harmony”. Her passion to ensure emotional synergy among women and men has led her to design Gender Dynamics Intelligence (GDI©) and address the DEI agenda with new narratives to regenerate healthy heart-centered workplace cultures. Her mission is to establish a business landscape where women are valued and engaged with men in all aspects of business and life enhancement. Her team delivers unique conversation concepts, GDI Archetype profiles and wellness culture programs in global locations.

She is a certified entreprenologist PHD, hosting Magical Conversations and facilitating lively interactive experiences. Her mission is to educate leaders in the benefits of personal & professional value creation by embodying a living philosophy that improves conversations, relationships, and performance.

#heartcenteredleadership #conversationstrategy #conflictcultureresolutions